Apple Mac OS X Launch Services code execution

macos-launchservices-code-execution (43495) The risk level is classified as HighHigh Risk

Description:

Apple Mac OS X could allow a remote attacker to execute code on the system, caused by a race condition error in the download validation of symbolic links within the Launch Services component. By persuading a victim to visit a specially-crafted Web site, a remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability and execute arbitrary code on the system. This vulnerability could be exploited automatically if the "Open safe files" option is enabled in Safari.

Platforms Affected:

  • Apple, Mac OS X 10.4.11
  • Apple, Mac OS X Server 10.4.11

Remedy:

Apply Apple Security Update 2008-004 or upgrade to the latest version of Mac OS X (10.5.4 or later), available from the Apple Web site. See References.

Consequences:

Gain Access

References:

  • Apple Web site, About the security content of Security Update 2008-004 and Mac OS X 10.5.4 at http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2163.
  • BID-30018: Apple Mac OS X 2008-004 Multiple Security Vulnerabilities
  • CVE-2008-2311: Launch Services in Apple Mac OS X before 10.5, when Open Safe Files is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a symlink attack, probably related to a race condition and automatic execution of a downloaded file.
  • FrSIRT/ADV-2008-1981: Apple Mac OS X Command Execution and Security Bypass Issues
  • SA30802: Apple Mac OS X Security Update Fixes Multiple Vulnerabilities
  • SECTRACK ID: 1020393: Mac OS X Launch Services File Download Symlink Validation Bug Lets Remote Users Execute Arbitrary Code

Reported:

Jun 30, 2008

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